MSc Person-Centred Counselling (Children, Young People and Adults)

Examine the philosophy, theories, and research concerning the person-centred approach while developing a deeper understanding of the role counselling plays in society. This degree is grounded in the Person-Centred Counselling MSc but in the final year, it has a different outcome with students studying our Specialist Certificate for Counselling Children and Young People. This certificate can also be completed as a stand-alone course for qualified practitioners.

We are one of only a few Universities that provide professionally accredited studies in Person-centred Counselling. The comprehensive programme combines self-awareness, counselling theory, practice, and research to enable trainee counsellors to engage with therapeutic processes across different counselling relationships.

The programme is validated by COSCA, Scotland professional body for counselling and psychotherapy, and taught by highly qualified, practising counsellors, giving you unrivalled expertise and a supportive environment to advance your knowledge and skills.

Our full-time route allows you to gain an MSc in 18 months, with an option to complete the final 60 credits by undertaking a Dissertation/Counselling Related Research Study, or a combination of a shorter Dissertation/Counselling Related Research Study and our Specialist Certificate for Counselling Children and Young People. After completing the programme, you will have the training required to apply for COSCA accreditation as a counsellor or psychotherapist.

The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Individuals on this course will need a high level of critical self-awareness and a willingness to reflect on their own process. Readiness to enter a programme which has at its centre the student's own personal development is desirable. Voluntary or professional experience of support work with adults is also desirable.

The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.

Applicants will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:2 or above from a recognised university or body. In exceptional circumstances, applicants without this qualification may be admitted by achieving Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Please contact the programme director for guidance. Applicants must also prove they have relevant, credit-bearing counselling skills, totalling 60 credits, ideally from completion of Aberdeen University's Counselling and Listening Skills courses 1 to 4.

Student membership of Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland (COSCA) is advised and a PVG check and certificate will be required at the start of the programme.

Applicants must have completed a Validated Diploma in Counselling or Psychotherapy. The preference is for a postgraduate diploma, but undergraduate qualifications will also be considered. It is an advantage for applicants to have had the experience working with children/young people and be open to the humanistic values of this course.

You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.

Degree Transcript
a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
Personal Statement
a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme

IELTS Academic: OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5, Reading - 5.5, Speaking - 5.5, Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT: OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 21